Boot Camp: EP Likes Veteran Linemen

WMBD/WYZZ-TV - EAST PEORIA, Ill. - Josh Johnson is back for his second season at East Peoria.

But he will tell you the most important people returning to the raiders football squad is the starting lineman. All five are back and hoping to lead EP back to the playoffs.

"It is just so important. We are like the backbone of the team, we get things rolling," said senior lineman Evan Betz. "We get the push on the offense and push on the defense. I mean, it's just everything for the team."

The Raiders line was healthy enough to play the entire season together last fall and is hoping for a repeat performance this season.

"We have alot of experience up front this year so it will be a fun year," said senior lineman Derek Sparkman. "We played nine games together last year, so we will see what happens.

East Peoria opens the season at home Friday against Streator.

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